How Artemis Was Worshiped In Ancient Greece

People that worshiped Artemis in ancient Greece believed that she would help them with their life and answer their prayers. They also often visited the temple with offerings of incense and sacrificial animals. Artemis was worshiped as a major Goddess throughout Greece. Her title was the Fleet Young Huntress and the Protector of Animals.

One of the most famous festivals about Artemis took place in Brauron. In this festival Artemis dresses up as a She-Bear and protects her cubs. When Athenian girls reached puberty they were dedicated to the Goddesses as young bears, wearing bear skin and doing bear dances in her temple. Goats were slaughtered during these ceremonies to show death, sacrifice, and renewal.

When young girls in Greece wanted to marry a man, they had to display their personal belongings from their childhood on an altar to Artemis. These things were things from childhood, such as dolls and toys. They showed the transition from childhood to adulthood.

Ancient Greece

Ancient Rome

How Diana Was Worshiped In Ancient Rome(Diana is what the Romans called Artemis)

Diana was worshiped by mostly lower class citizens and slaves in a temple on Aventine Hill. She was worshiped at a festival on August 13. Diana's name probably came from "diviana “ which meant "the shining one.” For centuries in Ancient Rome she was known as a Mother Goddess, Protector of Nature, Children, and animals. Her name has lasted and she is still somehow worshiped today.